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Abstract:

An optical and infrared observing programme which provides the most detailed information yet available for blazars is described. From this it is possible to make progress in understanding the physical processes which are occurring on the smallest scales within the emission region. Later theoretical calculations including a treatment of synchrotron emission incorporating losses and a realistic source geometry are presented together with a model of particle acceleration at relativistic shocks in disordered magnetic fields. The work contained in this thesis can explain the radiation and make predictions regarding future observations. The conclusion is that the observations support the idea that the synchrotron emitting electrons are being accelerated at a collisionless shock front in a disordered field.